This unmistakable bird is a rare visitor from South America, recognized by its black and white pattern and ridiculously long tail feathers. The upperparts are black with a paler gray back, which sharply contrasts with the black crown. The underparts, including the underside of the wings, are white. The white of the throat wraps around the sides of the neck, forming a partial collar. Adult males have extremely long tail feathers, which droop downward, and a yellow crown stripe, which is usually hidden. Tails on females and juveniles are shorter, but still much longer than those of similar Eastern Kingbird.